Concerns Voiced Over Possible Impacts From Beaufort County Mine

Plans for a proposed mine in Beaufort County have residents nearby protesting its construction. They aren't worried about the mine itself, but the waste and ground water coming from it.

The Division of Water Quality held a public hearing at Beaufort Community College Thursday night, where citizens could express their concerns and look at the proposed drawings.

The quarry would be located off of Welbourn Road near Vanceboro. The wastewater from it would end up in Blount's Creek, a recreational fishing hot spot.

While the Pamlico-Tar Riverkeeper tells us drinking water shouldn't be affected, Bob Boulden says if the wildlife is harmed, the local economy, could take a hit. Boulden says, "People come from all over Eastern North Carolina to fish there. If they lose it the amount of money they gather from recreational fishing will far be a greater loss than the little bit of money they're going to make at the mine."

The company looking to build is Martin Marietta materials. They didn't speak at the hearing, but they were in attendance.

A permit and certification are needed before Martin Marietta can move forward.

The public comment period ends April 12th. The Division of Water Quality director will have 90 days to make a decision.

Those comments can be mailed to the Division of Water Quality at their home office in Raleigh or regional office in Washington.

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